Each Wednesday through April, dance instructor and choreographer Carla Roberts offers a free belly dance classes at the Ross Aragon Community Center.

A beginner’s class starts at 2 p.m. and runs until 3:30, and an intermediate class is held 3:30-5.

If you are looking for a fun way to become fit, consider joining our ongoing group of dedicated dancers! Each class begins with a thorough stretching and toning, building the strength and balance needed to be a strong dancer. Introduction to veil work, shimmies, fast and slow hips, and much more is covered in a gentle, supportive manner. No prior dance experience is necessary for the beginning class at 2 p.m.

This introductory class is ideal for a mother/daughter activity.

A pleasant aerobic exercise, dancing brings well-known benefits, such as reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, weight control and other ones commonly associated with physical fitness. In addition, a considerable effect of dancing on psychological well being is noted. Belly dance helps to develop muscle control and isolation, graceful arms, and body conditioning from head to toe. The emphasis on rhythm and balance stimulates and activates the brain to “think young”.

For those with some experience with belly dance, the 3:30 p.m. intermediate class has an emphasis on solo, duet, and troupe performance, costume design and study of the basic dance rhythms. Ongoing experimentation with choreography and individual styling rounds out the intermediate dance class.

Celebrate life through dance! Improve mood and physical fitness while having fun. Ladies interested in trying out this exciting dance style can come to the Ross Aragon Community Center on Wednesdays. Classes will continue on through April. Wear comfortable clothes, bring a coin hip scarf if you have one, or use scarves and skirts available during the class.

The Ross Aragon Community Center located at 451 Hot Springs Blvd. For further information, call 264-4152, or Carla Roberts at 731-3117.